Iraqi, U.S. Soldiers bring hope to poor neighborhood

Courtesy Photo | General Mahdi, Iraqi Army 4th Brigade commanding general, reaches out to the future of Iraq. Mahdi and his Soldiers distributed much needed school supplies to the children and staff at a school in downtown Mahmudiyah, Iraq. "These children are the future of Iraq," Mahdi said. "The children of Iraq are going to lead the future and we are required to visit them. Take care of them. "  

MAHMUDIYAH, IRAQ

09.20.2005

Courtesy Story

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Spc. Tracy J. Smith
48th Brigade Combat Team PAO

MAHMUDIYAH, Iraq -- Iraqi Army Soldiers, accompanied by their U.S. counterparts from Forward Operating Base Michael, recently visited a school in downtown Mahmudiyah to deliver school supplies in one of the poorest communities in the neighborhood.

The visit is an important part of the IA's community outreach efforts to positively influence and establish a mutual trust within the citizens they protect.

"The fine Soldiers of the 4th Brigade know they must take good care of the people of this region," said Brig. Gen. Mahdi, commander of 4th Brigade, 6th IA Division. The mission is simple, Mahdi added: 'to provide a good, safe environment for (the citizens of this region) and for the children, our future leaders, to study and grow up and do the right things."

As the Soldiers walked into the school, children and staff peered curiously around doors and windows.

"They are growing up in a very difficult time," Mahdi explained. "But they will rebuild Iraq again. We are now creating a good environment for them by supplying them with the basics to succeed."

Capt. Bryan S. Mitchell, Military Integration Training Team officer with the 48th Brigade Combat Team and a resident of Columbus, Ga., was noticeably impressed with the handling of the mission and the reception the IA Soldiers received from the community.

"It is a goodwill mission that helps inspire the local population to have faith in the intentions of the Iraqi Army," Mitchell said.

Many of the IA Soldiers took the opportunity to speak candidly to the young students. The children, justifiably excited by this visit, became rambunctious, but they listened attentively to a new IA recruit, who took some time to talk with the students.

"Respect your lessons," Pvt. Mahmud said. "These opportunities are given to you as a gift from God so that you can become great leaders, scientists and teachers or future leaders of our country."

As the pencils, crayons, books and learning games were distributed, Mahdi promised it would not be the last time they paid a visit to the neighborhood. "My hope is that we will (have) this experience at least monthly or twice a month." he said. "I could not be more pleased that we, as Soldiers, have this privilege. We must become friends with the people of Mahmudiyah and this region."

Walking through the community, the IA Soldiers shook hands, listened to concerns and reassured their people that they would do what was best to provide for the growing democracy and protect them from outside agitators.

"The end result to this new beginning is going to be providing information and cooperating with the Iraqi Army," Mitchell predicted. "They are willing to make a difference and we are definitely seeing that today. They are picking up the pace and making great strides. Definitely making history!"

• Date Taken: 09.20.2005
• Date Posted: 09.20.2005 18:55
• Story ID: 3072
• Location: MAHMUDIYAH, IQ